Exodus 31:3
And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,
Original Language Analysis
וָֽאֲמַלֵּ֥א
And I have filled
H4390
וָֽאֲמַלֵּ֥א
And I have filled
Strong's:
H4390
Word #:
1 of 9
to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)
אֹת֖וֹ
H853
אֹת֖וֹ
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
ר֣וּחַ
him with the spirit
H7307
ר֣וּחַ
him with the spirit
Strong's:
H7307
Word #:
3 of 9
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
אֱלֹהִ֑ים
of God
H430
אֱלֹהִ֑ים
of God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
4 of 9
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
וּבִתְבוּנָ֥ה
and in understanding
H8394
וּבִתְבוּנָ֥ה
and in understanding
Strong's:
H8394
Word #:
6 of 9
intelligence; by implication, an argument; by extension, caprice
Cross References
Exodus 35:31And he hath filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship;1 Kings 7:14He was a widow's son of the tribe of Naphtali, and his father was a man of Tyre, a worker in brass: and he was filled with wisdom, and understanding, and cunning to work all works in brass. And he came to king Solomon, and wrought all his work.Isaiah 28:26For his God doth instruct him to discretion, and doth teach him.Isaiah 28:6And for a spirit of judgment to him that sitteth in judgment, and for strength to them that turn the battle to the gate.1 Kings 3:9Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?
Historical Context
These craftsmen led teams of skilled workers who constructed the tabernacle according to Moses' pattern. Their Spirit-filling for technical work demonstrated that God values and empowers all forms of service, not just spiritual leadership.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the Spirit's equipping for artistic work validate creativity and craftsmanship as ministry?
- What talents has God given you that can serve His purposes when consecrated to Him?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Bezalel and Oholiab are filled with God's Spirit for artistic work—wisdom, understanding, knowledge, craftsmanship. This demonstrates that the Holy Spirit equips not only for preaching/teaching but for creative, technical skills. All talents serve God's purposes when consecrated to Him. The Spirit who designed creation enables artisans to create beauty for worship. Christ, the wisdom of God, is the ultimate craftsman who builds His church.